Recent progress in Zn-based anodes for advanced lithium ion batteries

Developing high-performance anode materials is essential for advanced next-generation lithium ion batteries. ZnO-based nanomaterials have been considered promising candidates owing to their high theoretical specific capacity, environmental friendliness, and relatively low cost. However, major problems, including inherent poor conductivity and huge volume expansion, have severely impeded ZnO-based nanomaterials from being viable. Here, we first present a brief review of the most effective strategies to improve the lithium ion storage performance of ZnO-based anodes. In addition, recent advances in other novel Zn-based nanomaterials are also summarized and discussed. Finally, we describe the challenges and prospects of future research trends for Zn-based nanomaterials. Recent progress, including storage mechanisms, synthetic methods, advanced strategies and electrochemical performance of Zn-based anodes in LIBs, is reviewed.